Here’s a cozy and hearty recipe for a Rustic Golden Potato Bake — simple, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors. It’s the perfect side dish for roast meats or a standalone vegetarian favorite!
🥔 Rustic Golden Potato Bake
🍽️ Serves: 6–8
⏱️ Prep: 15 minutes | Bake: 1 hour
✅ Ingredients:
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2 lbs golden potatoes (Yukon Gold), thinly sliced (about ⅛–¼ inch thick)
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1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
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1 cup shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix)
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan for topping
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Optional garnish: fresh chives, parsley, or thyme
🔪 Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven & Pan:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish with butter or spray.
2. Make the Cream Mixture:
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cream, garlic, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Warm just until butter melts and garlic is fragrant (don’t boil). Set aside.
3. Layer the Potatoes:
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Arrange half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish in overlapping layers.
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Pour half the cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle half the cheese.
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Repeat with remaining potatoes, cream, and cheese.
4. Top and Bake:
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Sprinkle optional Parmesan on top for extra crispness.
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Cover loosely with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
5. Rest & Serve:
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Let the bake rest for 10–15 minutes before serving so it sets slightly.
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Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
💡 Tips:
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A mandoline slicer helps get even, thin slices for perfect baking.
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Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier version.
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Want a crustier top? Broil for the last 2 minutes — watch closely!